Isolation Distances and Pinning Maps in Organic Seed Production

Introduction

Maintaining adequate isolation distances to prevent cross-pollination by crops of the same species is crucial to preserving seed variety integrity. Required isolation distances vary by species, crop type, and even variety. The distance required varies widely and is influenced by many factors in the seed production environment including pollinator density, presence or absence of plant and physical barriers, and wind direction and intensity. The available literature on determining isolation distances for seed crops is extremely varied, can be misleading, and is usually not based on sound field data. Even the best information on this subject may not be accurate for organic seed growers. Organic production systems often have a much greater diversity of insect species and an increased incidence of out-crossing in both cross-pollinated and self-pollinated species at standard isolation distances.

Isolation Distances Basics

The word species means “kind” in Latin. The species designation indicates sexual compatibility between individuals. Seed growers must always be aware of the cultivars, varieties, or types of a particular species that are being grown in their region that may cross with their seed crops.In addition, it is important to familiarize yourself with related crops or weedy species that are capable of crossing with your seed crop. Examples of intercrossing crops include table beet and Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris); zucchini and pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo); and broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea). Crops and weeds of the same species include carrot and Queen Anne’s lace (Daucus carota), as well as radicchio and wild chicory (Cichorium intybus). In such cases, the seed farmer must have an intimate knowledge of neighboring crops and the wild plant communities. The grower also should be acquainted with gardens that may have plants of the same species; a small number of flowering plants can create a large number of outcrosses.

Self-pollinated and Cross-pollinated Crops

Isolation distances are largely based on each crop’s reproductive system - whether it is self- or cross-pollinated. A common misconception is that self-pollinated crops are entirely self-pollinated and do not cross in nature. All self-pollinated crops do outcross to some extent under natural conditions, but some selfers outcross to a greater degree than others. For example, lettuce and common beans outcross rarely, while hot peppers and runner beans are much more promiscuous. Much of the literature on isolation distances states that a “break” of a few feet between crops of the same species will insure adequate isolation. This information is misleading to organic seed producers; increased insect activity often leads to increased crossing rates, even in self-pollinated crops. Perfect isolation does not exist. Experienced seed growers learn that continuous checking and rouging of all genetic stocks is necessary for quality seed production. Much of the seed production literature implies that prescribed minimum isolation recommendations will eliminate any chance of an outcross and the resultant seed will be genetically pure. However, this is often not the case; there is always the chance of outcrossing, even across great distances, due to various naturally-occurring factors. Seed companies often have internal standards for purity that require greater isolation distances for “foundation” seed or “stock" seed than those used for their production seed crops.

Establishing Isolation Distances

Accurately predicting minimum isolation distances can be difficult and site-specific. Isolation distances vary by density of insect pollinators, presence or absence of physical barriers, direction and intensity of prevailing winds, and acreage planted to seed crops. Numbers of insect pollinators can increase based on ambient temperature, humidity and the agro-ecosystem. Physical barriers such as terrain, vegetation, and buildings can significantly decrease the flow of pollen between crops and lessen necessary isolation distance. Prevailing winds and the physical size of the seed can also be important determinants in the amount of pollen present in areas adjacent to seed production plots. Cross-pollinated wind-pollinated species such as beets, Swiss chard, and spinach require greater isolation than most other insect-pollinated cross-pollinators. Isolation from genetically engineered (GE) crops is of crucial importance to organic producers and in other markets with low or no contamination tolerance. Organic seed producers must find out whether neighboring farms are growing GE vegetable or seed crops. When growing seed under contract, the seed buyer must be your first reference for required isolation distances.

Farmers manage crop isolation distances with pinning maps (see listings by state below). In most states, these are large, wall-mounted maps housed at county Extension offices; they are available to all growers and seed company representatives within a defined isolation district. Growers and seed company representatives locate their fields on the map and mark crop locations with color-coded pins. Seed companies bear responsibility for pinning. Isolation distances are determined by agreement among seed companies based on buyer requirements. Distances are designated for each map. Responsibility for the maintenance of the maps is usually shared by personnel from Extension and participating seed companies. Participants must visit the Extension office during business hours to pin their fields. California pinning maps now are posted online (see below).

Seed Pinning Maps by State

Oregon

OSU Extension Service, Linn County
Link: http://extension.oregonstate.edu/linn/ (verified 11 Mar 2010)
Corner of 4th and Lyons
Albany, OR 97321
Phone: 541-967-3871Pinning map covers east Benton County, all of Linn County, and Lane County north of Creswell.

This is an eOrganic article and was reviewed for compliance with National Organic Program regulations by members of the eOrganic community. Always check with your organic certification agency before adopting new practices or using new materials. For more information, refer to eOrganic's articles on organic certification.